Master of Psychology (Clinical Psychology)/Doctor of Philosophy (080CL) // Attributes, outcomes and skills

Knowledge

• Graduates should understand and critically evaluate theories and taxonomies of psychological disorders, and integrate knowledge of developmental and biopsychoscial perspectives, including individual and cultural diversity, to understanding mental health across the lifespan.
• Graduates should demonstrate knowledge of psychopharmacology and the biological bases of disorders, including their application to severe mental disorders.

Skills

• Graduates should demonstrate the ability to conduct culturally sensitive assessments of psychological disorders using standardised assessment tools, tests and interviews, as well as information and observations derived from the individual, and other sources relevant to the client, such as family systems.
• Graduates should be able to integrate, interpret, and synthesise clinical psychological assessment data with their knowledge of psychopathology to inform culturally sensitive case formulations, diagnoses and interventions relevant to the presentation of disorders across the lifespan.
• Graduates should demonstrate the ability to undertake a substantial piece of original research in clinical psychology and complete a research thesis which makes a distinct contribution to knowledge.

Application of skills and knowledge

• Graduates should demonstrate skills in selecting, tailoring and implementing appropriate interventions based on a culturally sensitive formulation. Throughout the course specific reference is made to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people within this context. They will devise interventions with individuals, dyads and/or carers/dependents across the lifespan, as appropriate They will consider interventions in a range of modalities, including e-health.
• Graduates should demonstrate knowledge of the range of settings in which clinical psychologists work. They will demonstrate the ability to consult and collaborate with colleagues, including those from other professions. They should also demonstrate an understanding of ethical principles and reasoning in psychological research and practice, particularly with reference to the Australian Psychological Society Code of Ethics and NHMRC National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human Research.

The Master of Psychology (Clinical Psychology)/Doctor of Philosophy prepares graduates who are distinguished by their breadth and depth of psychological knowledge, research and inquiry skills, and their ability to apply these to identify and provide treatment for psychological disorders that can occur across the lifespan.  Master of Psychology (Clinical Psychology)/Doctor of Philosophy graduates demonstrate:

Academic distinction

• Advanced psychological knowledge related to practice in clinical psychology, including identification and treatment of a range of mental health conditions that present across the lifespan.
• Critical, creative thinking with strong reasoning skills. They can apply psychological knowledge, information and research skills to complex problems relating to mental health and illness, human behaviour, and behavioural change.
•  Employ professional communication skills, in a culturally responsive manner, with a range of socially and culturally diverse clients.
• They are adept lifelong learners who generate bold and novel ideas by critically evaluating alternative possibilities and viewpoints.

Active citizenship

• A high regard for human rights, social inclusion, ethics and the environment.
• An awareness of the social and cultural diversity in communities and can work collaboratively with people from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds.
• In particular, they have an understanding of and deep respect for Indigenous knowledge, culture and values.
• They are equipped to be active, well-informed citizens who make substantial contributions to society, and have the potential to become leaders in their professions and communities.

Integrity and self-awareness

• Self-direction, with the ability to set goals and manage time and priorities.
• The ability to work effectively both independently and in groups.
• Skills in self-assessment, reflective thinking and self-awareness; placing great importance on their personal and professional integrity, and on the willingness to explore, experiment and learn from mistakes.
• Empathy and concern for the welfare of others and have developed skills in managing their own well-being.